– Delegates commend traditional rulers’ role in fostering peace, national integration
The South-West contingent to the 40th National Qur’anic Recitation Competition and Anniversary has paid a historic courtesy visit to His Eminence, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abba Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Led by Asiwaju Kamal’deen Akintunde, Esq., the Ogun State Coordinator of Musabaqah and leader of the delegation, the team expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the revered monarch for granting them audience, describing the visit as both symbolic and unifying.
In his remarks, Alhaji Akintunde, who also serves as the Secretary-General of the Ogun State Muslim Council (OMC), noted that the visit held dual significance.
He explained that it reflected a profound appreciation for the traditional institution as a guiding moral force in society, and also reaffirmed the core aim of the Musabaqah, which is to promote unity, brotherhood, and spiritual harmony across Nigeria.
“This visit is commemorative and historic, marking the profound gains attained throughout the 40-year journey of the Musabaqah,” he noted, adding, “It reflects our commitment to using the Qur’an as a tool for promoting harmony among the peoples of Northern and Southern Nigeria.”
Asiwaju Akintunde applauded Alhaji Dr. Abba Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi and the Borno State Government for their unwavering support and courage in hosting the prestigious Musabaqah amidst security concerns.
The team comprised coordinators and officials from Lagos, Ogun, Osun, and Oyo States acknowledged the critical role of traditional rulers in national unity and spiritual development.
While expressing gratitude for the warm reception, the delegation lamented the absence of participants from Ekiti and Ondo States, whose families withheld permission due to concerns over security.
“This unfortunate reality only underscores the bravery and commitment of Borno State in hosting the event,” Asiwaju Akintunde said.
The team commended the growth and impact of the Musabaqah over the last four decades, especially its role in promoting youth mentorship, unity among Muslims, and the memorisation of the Qur’an.
They praised Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, the organisers, for their consistency, and acknowledged Shehu’s longstanding support, recalling his involvement during the 36th edition held in Lagos in 2019.
Highlighting the Shehu’s vital role in the success of this year’s competition, the delegation reiterated its support for the inclusion of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s constitution. “We join the call for a constitutional role for traditional rulers and urge the National Assembly to prioritise this in the ongoing review process,” Akintunde added.
They concluded by appreciating the Borno State Government for defying the odds to host the competition, praying for lasting peace across the state and the country.
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